Terrified residents have called police into action after hundreds of large nails were found scattered across a beach access road. As well as the nails, steel bolts and even small saw blades were found positioned along a track leading to an Anglesey beach – a path frequently used by vehicles.
Locals have described this week’s incident as a “disgusting act of vandalism”, saying it poses a threat not only to motorists but also potentially to horse riders and other road users. It is the latest in a series of similar attacks over the past two years.
The metal debris was discovered in a narrow lane leading to Traeth Penial beach. This quiet and secluded stretch of stone and sand has no facilities and is hidden away in the north of Anglesey. Boasting views across Beddmanarch Bay to Holyhead, it tends to be frequented by locals rather than tourists who usually opt for the sandy beach at nearby Porth Tywyn Mawr.
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Hannah Groom and her partner Tomi Jones, from the nearby village of Llanfachraeth, who are dog walkers, came across the nail trap on Thursday evening (July 12). Hannah, 23, a calf rearer at Diary Farm, said “a lot of nails have been placed in an area where people park right next to the beach”, adding that “there is only enough space for one car in that area”, North Wales Live reports.
Hannah continued: “There were more nails along the track. Judging by the way they were placed, in the potholes and tire tracks, it was clear that it was done deliberately. It was not an accident. There were hundreds of nails lying around. We picked up as many as we could carry in our pockets. But there were still hundreds on the road.”
Hannah posted a message on social media warning any horse riders, coastguards and marine officers who might potentially use the beach. One lady commented on the post, exclaiming: “This is appalling.”
After Hannah posted her article, people volunteered to clean up the site, with one even saying he would bring metal detectors and powerful fishing magnets.
Others described similar incidents, saying it had happened “on several occasions”. One man from Holyhead added: “I’ve removed thousands of nails from there over the years.”
Among the scattered debris were masonry nails up to 10cm long, along with roofing nails, nuts and bolts. Although some were covered in rust, it was obvious that many were brand new.
Traeth Penitentiary can be subject to high tides, which limits access for cars, so residents opt for the only parking space on the access track.
North Wales Police have been contacted to respond to the allegations.
